Festive Concert in the Honour of the Czechoslovak Independence Day

We will celebrate Independence Day with favourite works by renowned Czech composers. In the spirit of this significant national holiday, distinguished performers from the Czech Republic and Slovakia will take to the stage alongside the Moravian Philharmonic Olomouc. The solo part in Erich Wolfgang Korngold’s concerto will be performed by violin virtuoso Jiří Vodička, known for his lively temperament and brilliant technique. This concerto by the Brno-born composer is a staple of the violin repertoire and, particularly in its third movement, reveals the composer as a renowned writer of music for Hollywood films of the 1930s and 1940s. The Moravian Philharmonic will be conducted by the Slovak conductor and violinist Maroš Potokár, originally from Košice. Audiences across the Olomouc Region will be treated to his interpretation of Antonín Dvořák’s Symphony No. 6, characterised by its lyrical melodies, rhythmic vitality and colourful orchestral sound. This symphony is sometimes referred to as the “Czech” symphony and, in terms of its composition, belongs to Dvořák’s so-called “Slavic period” – a fact also evidenced by the frequent echoes of Czech folk music.

It is interesting to note that both protagonists of the concert have quite similar professional profiles. Both hold positions as principal players in leading symphony orchestras – Jiří Vodička is concertmaster of the Czech Philharmonic, whilst Maroš Potokár is concertmaster of the Košice State Philharmonic. Both enjoy successful careers as soloists and are active as conductors. The synergy between these two versatile musicians is sure to guarantee a unique artistic experience.